POTSDAM -- Canton-Potsdam Hospital recently hired two new nutritionists.

Martha Pickard Palmer is a nutrition specialist with a bachelor of science degree from Cornell University, in Ithaca, and a master of science degree in human nutrition from the University of Bridgeport in Bridgeport, Conn.

Lauren Smith is a dietitian with a bachelor of science degree in nutrition and a minor in personal training from SUNY Plattsburgh, and a master’s certificate in dietetics from the School of Health Sciences at the Sage Colleges, Troy. Palmer and Smith replace services formerly provided by Elizabeth Isenberg who retired from CPH in February.

“Both clinicians have extensive experience in nutritional counseling and have joined the hospital as part of its efforts to address the most prevalent diseases affecting the population of Northern New York,” according to hospital officials. “These diseases include diabetes and heart disease, as well as obesity, which can lead to a host of disease states and hospitalizations as people age.”

“Ms. Palmer and Ms. Smith base their work on the latest evidence in the science of nutrition and diet, as well as the latest state of our knowledge of what works to modify unhealthy behaviors,” said Dr. Paul Tejera. “Hospitals are now able to hire qualified nutrition professionals like certified nutrition specialists as well as registered dietitians much like how hospitals have both DO’s and MD’s on their medical staff. This allows for a wider array of experiences and education while still providing medical nutrition therapy that focuses on the individual needs of the patient,” he said.

Smith works with pediatric and adult patients. Her interests include oncology, renal diseases, diabetes, obesity, and sports dietetics. Smith acted as the Nutrition Program Manager for the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe Health Service prior to joining the team at CPH. Is an ACE-certified personal trainer, a lactation consultant, DONA-trained birth doula, CCE master canner and a certification in food safety through ServSafe and Sanitation.

Palmer provides nutrition consultations and counseling on an outpatient basis at the Primary Care Center of the CPH Cheel Medical Campus at 49 Lawrence Ave., Potsdam, on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursdays and in Canton Family Practice at the EJ Noble Building on Fridays. Patients may make an appointment with Palmer via referral from a primary care provider or directly at 261-5550.

Smith provides consultations to patients who are hospitalized and outpatients by appointment at CPH and Gouverneur Hospitals (GH), as well as through the CPH Center for Cancer Care. Smith is located within CPH on Mondays and Wednesday through Friday, and is at GH on Tuesdays. Patients may make an appointment via referral or directly at 261-5351 or 323-6937.